What Does the Lack of Indelible Ink Reveal About National Competence in University Elections?
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Synopsis
The recent elections at Chittagong University have unveiled significant issues with the availability of indelible ink, prompting the Chief Election Commissioner to call out the authorities for their incompetence. This situation raises questions about the integrity of student elections across Bangladesh.
Key Takeaways
- Indelible ink is essential for maintaining electoral integrity.
- The lack of ink has been criticized as a sign of national incompetence.
- Similar issues were reported at other universities.
- Concerns over voting irregularities are growing.
- Trust in the electoral process is at stake.
Dhaka, Oct 15 (NationPress) The issues surrounding indelible ink were brought to light during the Central Students' Union (CUCSU) elections at Chittagong University on Wednesday. The Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) criticized the authorities for the unavailability of the ink, describing it as a manifestation of national incompetence.
CEC Monir Uddin made these strong statements during a press briefing after candidates supported by Islami Chhatra Shibir and Chhatra Dal raised concerns that the ink used to mark voters' fingers could be easily washed off.
“We searched extensively, from Chawkbazar in Chattogram to Dhaka. Even at the Election Commission office, we were unable to locate any permanent ink,” Monir was quoted by leading Bangladeshi newspaper The Daily Star.
“The Election Commission has stated that the ink is imported from Germany prior to every national election. For security reasons, any leftover ink is destroyed afterward and not kept in storage. Thus, finding it elsewhere is impossible,” he added.
While acknowledging the commission's failure to secure the proper ink, Monir remarked, “We couldn't find a better ink — in fact, we couldn't find it at all. However, using ink is not mandatory.”
He also noted that other institutions, such as Dhaka University and Jahangirnagar University, had encountered similar challenges during their student union elections.
The CEC confirmed that 12 ballot papers were issued without signatures in the IT Faculty.
“We are aware of the situation and have discussed it. It was an unintentional error on the part of polling officials. This is our first election in several years. Those ballots will be separated after the boxes are opened, and verification will occur during counting,” he said.
However, Sazzad Hossain Hridoy, a vice president candidate backed by Shibir, accused the commission of “lying” about the ink situation.
“They provided us with the same explanation before the election. The commission has lost credibility among everyone. The university authorities and the commission are colluding to favor a specific panel in the CUCSU election,” he claimed.
These recent events come amid growing apprehensions over voting irregularities in student union elections conducted at universities nationwide.
Last month, several student leaders rejected the results of the Dhaka University Central Students' Union (DUCSU) election, labeling it a “planned fraud,” as candidates backed by Shibir secured significant positions.
Similarly, the Chhatra Dal declared a boycott of the Jahangirnagar University Central Students' Union (JUCSU) election held last month, citing voting irregularities and other issues.
These student leaders had previously collaborated with Muhammad Yunus and various political groups to undermine the democratically elected Awami League government led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
Point of View
I emphasize the need for accountability and transparency in our electoral processes. The challenges faced during the CUCSU elections highlight the pressing need for reforms in our electoral systems, ensuring that all stakeholders can trust the integrity of the voting process.
NationPress
15/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of indelible ink in elections?
Indelible ink is crucial in elections as it prevents voters from casting multiple votes, ensuring the integrity of the electoral process.
Why was there a lack of indelible ink at Chittagong University?
The Chief Election Commissioner stated that the ink is usually imported from Germany and is destroyed after elections, leading to its unavailability.
How did the candidates react to the ink issue?
Candidates backed by Islami Chhatra Shibir and Chhatra Dal expressed concerns that the ink used was removable, which raised doubts about the election's integrity.
What other universities faced similar issues?
Other universities, including Dhaka University and Jahangirnagar University, reported similar challenges during their student union elections.
What are the implications of these electoral issues?
These issues underscore the need for electoral reforms and raise questions about the credibility of student elections in Bangladesh.
